Australia head coach Robbie Deans conceded his side had been totally outplayed by France after their 33-6 defeat in Paris.

France scored five tries with Louis Picamoles and Wesley Fofana both crossing and the referee awarding them a penalty try as France's scrum overpowered the Wallabies. Frederic Michalak kicked 15 points while Morgan Parra added a late penalty as well in a convincing win for the French.

Australia's only points came from the boot of Mike Harris and Deans admitted after the match that his side had been outmuscled in contact and at the setpiece.

"It was a very complete performance from the French. They were too good for us," Deans said. "They grew in confidence. It was an arm wrestle for a bit, but they deserved their victory.
"Our set piece was part of the challenge and the effectiveness of the French around the contact meant we had no momentum, so when we tried to play to width in the second half, it was ineffective.

"In terms of the scrum, the French grew in confidence, just like their game. They started to play with a lot more exuberance and got in behind us."

Veteran lock Nathan Sharpe, who was winning his 113th cap, added: "We knew they were going to come out with intensity. Our intensity was good but our execution let us down. We were in good field position and gave away possession."
France head coach Philippe Saint Andre was delighted with his side'
s victory and was especially pleased with their physicality in the first of their autumn internationals.

"I'm proud of my players," said Saint-Andre. "It was a quality game. We went into it wanting to play in a confrontational way. We produced a great defence, moving up quickly and were very aggressive at the ruck. That was the key to the match.

"When you see what other southern hemisphere countries did today, South Africa beating Ireland and Argentina beating Wales, I've told my players to enjoy the win because it's not often you beat Australia, especially by 30 points."